How do I choose the right size?

Measure your available floor space and consider knee clearance for comfortable daily sitting. Compact writing tables suit smaller rooms, while twin pedestal desks demand a more generous footprint. Take into account the swing of desk chairs and the depth required when drawers or drop fronts are fully open. Ensure proportions match the scale of surrounding furniture.

How should I clean timber surfaces?

Dust regularly with a dry, soft cloth to prevent particulate buildup on the wood finish. Apply microcrystalline wax periodically to nourish the timber and protect the polish. Avoid placing desks in direct sunlight or near heat sources to prevent timber splitting and veneer lifting. Keep moisture away from unsealed wood and leather inserts.

How do I date an older desk?

Examine the drawer construction, timber selection, and overall hardware style for period characteristics. Hand-cut dovetails, secondary wood species, and specific revival motifs offer reliable chronological clues. Compare the construction methods against documented regional cabinetmaking traditions. Look for makers' marks, stamps, or labels inside drawers or on the backboards.